LAPD Explorer Chief Selected

March 20, 2009

Los Angeles:  The Los Angeles Police Department is proud to announce the selection of its Explorer Chief, Gloria Hernandez.

Chief Explorer Hernandez presently holds the rank of Captain at the San Pedro High School Police Academy Magnet Program and was also an Explorer Commander.  She also received notification last night that she had been accepted to attend the University of California, Los Angeles where she intends to study law.  In her new role, Chief Explorer Hernandez exercises functional command for all Department Explorers under the guidance of the Office of Operations.  She also supervises the twelve Explorer Commanders who serve as liaisons to the Area Posts.

Gloria cites as some of her many goals the chance to enhance leadership opportunities and develop age-appropriate training not only for Magnet Cadets and Explorers, but also for the thousands of young people who participate in our other Department youth enrichment initiatives.  She is a superb example of how an investment in our youth today has the great potential of paying meaningful and rich dividends in the future.

Chief Earl Paysinger, Commanding Officer of Operations, said “Please join me in congratulating Explorer Commander Gloria Hernandez for being named the next Chief Explorer for the Department Explorer Program.  This is a truly wonderful honor for an outstanding young lady!”

Chief Explorer Hernandez succeeds Eduardo Vega who celebrated his 21st birthday this month.  Her assignment to this position is effective immediately.